Palmer Played with Diarrhea, Reveals Chelsea Boss Maresca

Cole Palmer experienced a challenging afternoon, suffering from stomach cramps and missing a penalty for the first time in his professional career.

Despite feeling unwell for two days leading up to the game, the England player insisted on playing in the match that resulted in a hard-fought victory.

Marc Cucurella’s second-half goal against Leicester City propelled the Blues back into the top four.

Palmer, whose perfect record of 15 penalty kicks for club and country was broken by Mads Hermansen, went directly to the bathroom after being substituted.

Manager Enzo Maresca commented, “Cole didn’t train on Saturday. He felt unwell during the night.”

“This morning he woke up and said he wanted to be on the field to help us compete for a Champions League spot.”

“In the last two days, he was completely out, with fever and diarrhoea.”

“But he asked to play, which demonstrates his desire to help this club reach its goals.”

Cole’s missed penalty in the first half occurred after Jadon Sancho was fouled by Victor Kristiansen.

Maresca celebrated enthusiastically at the final whistle and disclosed that Leicester’s unexpected tactical approach forced Chelsea to revise their game plan just before the match began.

Defender Cucurella’s winning goal was his fourth Premier League goal of the season for Chelsea.

Maresca also urged fans to show more positivity after boos were heard at Stamford Bridge at halftime, as the team struggled against Leicester.

The Italian manager stated, “I am happy because when we prepare for a game, we analyze numerous matches.”

“We watched Leicester, and they consistently played with a four-man defense.”

“However, they came here with a five-man defense. Consequently, our training sessions were rendered ineffective.”

“I understand negative feelings, but consider the number of opportunities we created in the first half.”

“People need to realize that this is our style and our approach going forward.”

“When a team generates as many chances as we did today, you must be pleased. It’s not simple.”

“If you believe football is just like a video game where you win effortlessly, that’s not the reality. Every match is challenging. We need our fans’ support.”

Leicester is now six points away from Premier League safety with ten games remaining.

But their manager Ruud van Nistelrooy commented, “The performance was very good, full of heart and spirit.”

“We are uncertain if we will have enough time to escape relegation, but we are focused on the present and future.”